Dr. Kent Estes Memorial Golf Tournament

Dr. Kent Estes was passionate about many things, including his three sons and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Each of his sons, Erik, Aaron and Luke, attended UNK and were members of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. Kent saw how the fraternity impacted its members, the campus and the community, and believed strongly in its values.

Kent received his Bachelor of Science from Nebraska Wesleyan University in 1968. He went on to earn his Master’s Degree from Kearney State College in 1972, and his Doctorate in Education (EdD) from the University of Northern Colorado in 1987. Kent began teaching at Kearney State College (which later became UNK) in 1975 in the Department of Counseling and School Psychology, where he served for more than 20 years as the Department Chairman.

Later in life Kent fought a difficult battle with Leukemia. During his time as a cancer patient, he lived by the motto; “I know I’m sick, but do I have to act like it?” His positive outlook throughout this time was an inspiration to all who came in contact with him.

Since the inaugural event in 2005, our chapter has hosted the Kent Estes Memorial Golf Tournament, donating all proceeds to the Kent Estes Memorial Fund. Through this event and the amazing support of our alumni and the Kearney community, we have been able to raise enough money to endow three annual scholarships in honor of Dr. Estes; one to a student in the Counseling and School Psychology department, one to a student-athlete, and one to an active member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.

As of 2014, the Kent Estes Memorial Golf Tournament has raised over $42,500 and awarded over 20 scholarships, including six to Pi Kappa Alpha members listed below.